Editor’s Note: Falling in Love with Fall

Fall is my favorite season. I love the colors, the cooler weather, the apple cider and pumpkin pie. (Plus, I finally get to break out my blazers, boots and scarves again!) And here we are, on the cusp of fall once more.

During the fall, it seems everything is apple- or pumpkin-flavored—in the best way, of course. It’s also a time to go apple-picking and explore pumpkin patches. This issue, we’ve uncovered some of the best places for fall activities, as well as show you a few easy and delicious recipes beyond the ubiquitous apple and pumpkin pies.

This month, too, we talk to several single mothers about the challenges of raising a child on your own. It’s certainly not easy, but these mothers are forging their own paths, and their kids are lucky to have such dedicated parents—no matter what the circumstances.

Having children, of course, is a fraught decision even before they are born. Our newest intern, Ana Hart, who is pregnant herself, looks at the best (and worst) of the advice she’s read (and been told to read) over the course of her pregnancy. Let’s just say “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” is not quite the gold standard it once was. But in better Mommy-to-be news, it turns out Baltimore is home to many local craftswomen (and men) whose products are sure to. delight baby and parents alike.

And, as always, we’ve got our great calendar to get you out and about, important input from our columnists and some fantastic young adult book recommendations. (Let’s be honest, there’s always room for more apocalyptic dystopia young adult fiction in your life.)

Don’t mind me, I’ll just be over here, waiting for the weather to get cool so I can curl up in my sweater and blanket scarf with apple cider and a copy of “The Giver.” Because that is true heaven. And I encourage you all to find your happy place this fall—and bring your family right along with you.